Why This Recipe Works
Kid-Approved and Crowd-Pleasing
Quick and Easy
Done in 30 minutes with no special equipment. Perfect for busy holiday hosts.
Universal Appeal
Kids love the crispy bacon and gooey cheese; adults appreciate the indulgent flavor.
Versatile Side
Pairs beautifully with turkey, ham, or plant-based mains. Works as a snack or appetizer.
Make-Ahead Friendly
Pre-wrap and refrigerate until ready to bake. No last-minute rush!
Ingredients You'll Need
Cheesy Bacon-Wrapped Mini Potatoes
Crispy bacon and gooey cheddar wrapped around bite-sized potatoes.
Ingredients
- • 1 lb mini potatoes
- • 12 bacon slices
- • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- • 1 tsp garlic powder
- • 1/2 tsp salt
Instructions
Prep Potatoes: Parboil mini potatoes in salted water for 5-7 minutes until tender but not falling apart. Drain and pat dry.
💡 Drain well to avoid steaming the bacon during baking.
Wrap with Bacon: Wrap each potato with a bacon slice, securing with toothpicks. Place on a baking sheet.
💡 Use thick-cut bacon for better flavor and crispiness.
Add Cheese: Stuff each wrapped potato with a small spoonful of cheddar cheese.
💡 Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting.
Season and Bake: Sprinkle garlic powder and salt over the potatoes. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes or until bacon is crispy and cheese is melted.
💡 Flip halfway through for even browning.
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Mini Potatoes
Use red or Yukon gold for best texture. Substitute with diced sweet potatoes for a sweeter twist.
Substitutions: Small baby potatoes, quartered
Bacon
Smoked bacon adds extra flavor. For a vegetarian version, use smoked tofu slices.
Substitutions: Turkey bacon, tempeh strips
Cheddar Cheese
Sharp cheddar melts best. Substitute with gouda or pepper jack for different flavors.
Substitutions: Mozzarella, provolone
Garlic Powder
Adds savory depth. Substitute with fresh garlic (1 clove minced) or onion powder.
Substitutions: Fresh garlic, garlic salt
Pro Tips for Perfect Bites
Parboil Perfectly
Test doneness by piercing with a fork. Potatoes should be just tender, not mushy.
Crispy Bacon Secret
Use a wire rack on the baking sheet to allow fat to drain, ensuring crispy bacon every time.
Cheese Melting
Add cheese after wrapping to prevent it from melting too early and becoming dry.
Serving Hack
Serve with ketchup, BBQ sauce, or aioli for dipping. Kids love the tangy kick!
Variations & Customizations
Spicy Kick
Add 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese filling.
Cheesy Upgrade
Mix cheddar with 1/2 cup cream cheese for a richer, gooier center.
Herb Heaven
Sprinkle with fresh thyme or rosemary before baking for aromatic depth.
Dairy-Free
Use vegan cheese and turkey bacon for a plant-based version.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Perfect for Holiday Tables
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Roast turkey with herb stuffing – the bacon’s smokiness complements turkey’s richness.
- Ham glazed with brown sugar – sweet and savory contrast.
- Green bean casserole – balances the dish with a veggie side.
🍷 Drink Pairings:
Pair with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or a light beer such as pilsner.
Make-Ahead & Storage
Plan Ahead for Holiday Success
Make-Ahead Tips
Wrap potatoes and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking. Add cheese just before baking.
Freezer Storage
Freeze wrapped potatoes (without cheese) for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 5 minutes to the time.
Reheating Instructions
Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes or until cheese is melted and bacon is crispy again.
Troubleshooting & FAQs
Q: Why isn’t my bacon crispy?
A: Ensure potatoes are fully drained after parboiling. Excess moisture steams the bacon instead of crisping it.
Q: How to prevent cheese from burning?
A: Add cheese in the last 5 minutes of baking to avoid over-melting.
Q: Can I air-fry these?
A: Yes! Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway. Air frying reduces cooking time.
Q: How to store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in oven for best texture.
Final Thoughts
Cheesy Bacon-Wrapped Mini Potatoes
These bite-sized wonders are the ultimate crowd-pleaser—crispy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or craving a quick snack, this recipe delivers satisfaction with minimal effort. The bacon adds a smoky crunch, while the melted cheddar creates a gooey center that’s impossible to resist. Perfect for both adults and kids, these mini potatoes are sure to become a holiday tradition. Don’t forget the ketchup for dipping!
For best Pinterest visibility, post this side pin as part of a complete meal series over 5-7 days: anchor with a turkey recipe, followed by complementary sides like green bean casserole, finishing with a dessert like pumpkin pie. Happy cooking!
